Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta Recipe

If you’re looking for an easy dinner idea that feels a little fancy but doesn’t require hours in the kitchen, this creamy Tuscan chicken pasta has you covered. It’s rich, flavorful, and honestly tastes like something you’d get at a restaurant. Best of all, it’s quick enough for a weeknight but impressive enough for when you have company over.

What Makes This Pasta So Special?

This recipe is one of my go-tos when I want something comforting yet simple. The creamy sauce is packed with garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, and spinach, creating a perfect balance of flavors. Add juicy, seasoned chicken and tender pasta, and you’ve got yourself a winning dish. Plus, it’s all done in one pan, which means fewer dishes—and let’s be real, fewer dishes is always a win.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s a quick rundown of what you need to whip up this amazing creamy Tuscan chicken pasta:

For the Chicken:

• 2 large chicken breasts (boneless, skinless)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

For the Sauce:

• 3 tablespoons butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/3 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
• 2 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

For the Pasta:

• 12 ounces penne or fettuccine (cooked al dente)

How to Make Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta

This recipe is as simple as it is delicious. Here’s how to pull it together:

Step 1: Prep the Chicken

Start by seasoning your chicken breasts with garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat, then cook the chicken until it’s golden brown on the outside and cooked through (about 4-5 minutes per side). Once done, remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside to rest.

Step 2: Make the Sauce

In the same skillet, melt the butter and add minced garlic. Sauté for about a minute until it’s fragrant (seriously, is there anything better than the smell of garlic cooking?). Stir in the chicken broth, heavy cream, and Parmesan cheese, whisking until the sauce is smooth. Add the sun-dried tomatoes, spinach, and Italian seasoning, and let everything simmer for a few minutes until the spinach wilts and the sauce thickens slightly.

Step 3: Combine It All

Slice the cooked chicken into strips and add it back into the skillet. Toss in the cooked pasta, making sure everything is well-coated in that creamy sauce. Give it a taste and adjust the seasoning if needed.

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy

Serve your creamy Tuscan chicken pasta hot, with a sprinkle of extra Parmesan cheese on top. Pair it with a simple green salad or some garlic bread if you’re feeling fancy.

Pro Tips for Perfect Tuscan Pasta

• Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Cooking it al dente is key, as the pasta will continue to absorb the sauce after you mix everything together.
• Use Fresh Spinach: While frozen spinach can work in a pinch, fresh spinach adds a better texture and flavor.
• Choose the Right Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Look for the kind packed in oil—they’re softer and blend into the sauce beautifully.
• Cook the Chicken Just Right: Overcooking chicken can make it dry. If you’re unsure, use a meat thermometer; the internal temperature should be 165°F (74°C).

Why This Recipe Works for Busy Nights

Let me tell you—this recipe has saved me on more than one occasion. Life gets busy, but that doesn’t mean you have to settle for bland takeout or plain pasta. This creamy Tuscan chicken pasta comes together in about 30 minutes and feels like a treat every time. It’s also great for meal prep; the leftovers reheat like a dream.

Variations to Try

Want to mix things up? Here are some ideas:

• Swap the Protein: Try shrimp or even tofu for a twist.
• Go Gluten-Free: Use your favorite gluten-free pasta.
• Add Veggies: Mushrooms or roasted red peppers make a great addition.
• Lighten It Up: Substitute half-and-half for the heavy cream and use whole wheat pasta.

Final Thoughts

There’s just something about a creamy pasta dish that feels like a warm hug in food form. This creamy Tuscan chicken pasta checks all the boxes for me: it’s easy, flavorful, and always a crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re cooking for your family or just treating yourself, I’m sure you’ll love it as much as I do.

Give it a try and let me know how it turns out! Oh, and don’t forget the extra Parmesan—there’s no such thing as too much cheese, right?